Perinthalmanna (Kerala): An 11-year-old boy sustained a serious leg injury after an object on a village roadside exploded in north Kerala, police said on Monday.

The injured child, identified as Sreeharshan from Veettampara, was rushed to Cooperative Hospital, Perinthalmanna, on Sunday. The explosion caused severe damage to his ankle, with flesh torn off in the blast. Authorities said his condition is currently stable.

According to Ottappalam police, the incident occurred while Sreeharshan was walking along a village path with his mother. “Suddenly, his leg struck the object, and it exploded,” a police officer said.

Preliminary investigations suggest the object may have been a country-made explosive, reportedly used in rural areas to scare away wild animals, particularly wild boars. “Since this is an area frequented by wild boars, there is a possibility that such explosives were placed intentionally. Confirmation will require a scientific examination, and all aspects are being investigated,” the officer added.

A case has been registered under the Explosive Substances Act in connection with the incident. Police are continuing their investigation into the source of the explosive.

PTI